October is a popular month for bats – in fact, October 24-31 is Bat Week. However, these mammals have more to offer than just being a symbol for Halloween. Mackenzie Hall, biologist in DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife Endangered and Nongame Species Program, joined Bob Bostock to discuss her experiences with these incredible creatures. Mackenzie is a recipient of the Conserve Wildlife Foundation’s Women & Wildlife Inspiration Award and has been involved in a number of projects spanning bat colonies, migrating amphibians, and grassland birds.

No matter where you’re from, environmental emergencies inevitably occur. From droughts to hurricanes to hazardous spills, New Jersey has dealt with it all. Bob VanFossen, Director of DEP’s Emergency Management Program, joined Bob Bostock to discuss the role of DEP’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) in assessing environmental emergencies as they arise and addressing them as quickly and thoroughly as possible.

This year has been particularly dry, which caused DEP to issue a drought watch in late July for most northern and central regions of New Jersey. With continued dry weather, there is now a possibility that the watch may become a warning. Jeff Hoffman, New Jersey’s State Geologist, joined Bob Bostock to discuss the current drought watch and DEP’s role in public awareness, water conservation, and prevention of droughts.

Fall marks the beginning of deer rutting season, a time of year when deer are especially active. New Jersey is home to over 101,000 deer, which can cause problems for motorists especially during their morning and evening commutes. Dan Roberts, principal wildlife biologist and leader of the white-tailed deer project here at DEP, joined Bob Bostock to discuss deer in New Jersey, DEP’s deer management policies, and how people can stay safe while on the road.